In a tragic incident, Indian Air Force (IAF) jawan Kunal Kumar, 27, died after falling from a moving train at Gauchhari railway station in Bihar’s Khagaria district. The young airman, who had just completed his duty during Operation Sindoor along the Line of Control (LoC), was on his way home after finally being granted leave when the fatal accident occurred.
Kunal, a resident of Gauchhari Khataha Nagar Parishad under Gogri police station limits, had been posted at Bagdogra Air Force Station in West Bengal. His journey began from New Jalpaiguri, the station nearest to his post. He was traveling on the Guwahati-Jammu Tawi Amarnath Express, a train that does not stop at Gauchhari. As the train slowed while passing Platform No. 1 of the Gauchhari station along the Barauni–Katihar section, he attempted to get down, hoping to be with his family just a few kilometers away. He fell and died on the spot.
Kunal had joined duty on May 11, just four days after his marriage on May 7, as his leave was abruptly cancelled due to the outbreak of Operation Sindoor. Once the military operation concluded and tensions eased, he was granted leave and eagerly set out to reunite with his wife and family, carrying stories of valor and service. However, fate had other plans.
Khagaria GRP station in-charge Dhananjay Kumar confirmed the details of the incident and stated that the body was sent for postmortem. An investigation into the circumstances of the accident is ongoing. The officer reiterated that Gauchhari is a non-stoppage station for the Amarnath Express, and it appears the accident happened while Kunal tried to alight as the train slowed briefly.
The news of his death devastated his family. His father, Ramvilas Sah, expressed heartbreak over losing his only son. “He had many dreams. He was proud to serve the country,” he said with a trembling voice. Kunal’s wife, Kavita, reportedly fainted upon hearing the news.
The tragedy underscores the dangers faced not only in the line of duty but also during the simplest acts of returning home. Kunal Kumar’s death has cast a shadow over his community, where his return was awaited with pride and joy. The nation mourns the loss of a young airman whose service and sacrifice, both in uniform and in spirit, remain etched in memory.
